Three sisters from County Down have marked the tenth anniversary of their brother’s death in a motorcycle crash by appealing for all road users to take greater care.

Jay Reardon was 21 when he died on 31 July 2016 while riding his motorbike on Belfast Road in Newtownards. The Police Service of Northern Ireland confirmed that no other vehicle was involved.

His sisters Laura, Anna and Susi said the past decade has been defined by milestones he never saw. They spoke of first homes, graduations, marriages and children he did not witness, and described his absence as a void that has not been filled.

Laura Reardon urged drivers to take an extra second to look for motorcyclists, warning that a moment of impatience or distraction can permanently alter a family. She also told bikers to wear proper protective clothing, ride within their limits and always expect the unexpected.

Anna Reardon stressed that motorcyclists lack the crash protection car drivers have, and said a single split-second decision can change countless lives. She appealed to motorists to be especially considerate of those on two wheels.

Susi Reardon, now approaching the age her brother was when he died, cautioned that fine weather should not lead riders to abandon safety gear. She noted that not every serious collision involves speed, drugs or alcohol, and that tragedy can strike anyone without warning.

Jay Reardon worked as an engineering lecturer at South Eastern Regional College in Bangor, having secured the post at age 20. His family described him as a lifelong Arsenal supporter and a keen local footballer, as well as someone who was passionate about motorbikes from the moment he could legally ride.